Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the situation at the front lines in the Donbas region as "difficult and painful," requiring all of his country's "strength and focus." In a speech, Zelensky said, "First and foremost, the conditions at the front lines. Bakhmut, Kreminna, and other areas in Donbas require maximum strength and concentration." He continued, "The situation there is difficult and painful. The occupiers are deploying all available resources, which are significant, to make some progress." Zelensky also mentioned that power outages are still ongoing, affecting around 9 million residents.